The SCC Breaker discusses his SYL ODP experience and expectations of the West Ham Academy
Wednesday, March 12
For a look inside the Super Y-League ODP experience, USLSoccer.com recently sat down with Aaron Liang of the Santa Cruz County Breakers. Liang, a defender, is one of 12 players who emerged from the SYL ODP Camps earlier this year to represent United Soccer Leagues at the West Ham Academy. Liang and the other eleven representatives will depart on Friday, March 28. During their ten day venture, players will train within their corresponding West Ham Academy age group and attend English Premier League matches.
How was the level of competition at the SYL ODP Camps?
The level of competition at the SYL ODP Camps was definitely of a higher level. The level of play was fast, intense and controlled. Almost every player at the camp had good soccer skills. When we scrimmaged in a game, after the subs were made, the level of play in the game did not go down. I could see the intensity in every player’s eyes; they put their game face on and played their hardest. I was fortunate to have experienced the camp in 2007. I knew that this year the camp would be more difficult because there were more players to compete with for a limited spot.
What was your reaction when you learned you were selected to attend the West Ham trip?
When I checked our voicemail for messages, I was shocked to know that I was one of the players chosen to go to West Ham. My first concern was the financial commitment my parents would have to make for this trip. I didn’t know if they could afford it. I was afraid to be excited. I worried about all the what-if’s. I waited to break the news to my father and waited anxiously for his reaction. My parents felt that it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and they did not want me to miss it. I was ecstatic.
What technical/tactical skills did you pick up during the SYL ODP Camp?
During the SYL ODP Camp, I learned to play the ball quickly. Being that the level of play is much faster than what I am used to, I learned to make quick decisions on when to pass the ball when I am faced with pressure. The game at the camp never slowed down; I had to be nimble and react quickly. A few seconds of delay in making a decision could cost a goal.
Who was your favorite/most influential coach growing up?
Mr. Kurt Munoz was my most influential coach during my growing years. He coached me for two years [with the] Santa Cruz County Breakers. I had only played one year of Class I soccer when he got me on the team. Most of my soccer development occurred under his coaching. He played for University of California, Santa Cruz. He taught me how to play the flat-back-four formation. I learned that I had to build up my endurance for the game and Coach Munoz taught me drills to keep myself in shape. He was instrumental in helping me improve my tactical and technical skills.
What are your expectations heading to West Ham (players/facilities/coaches/culture)?
The United Kingdom is known for soccer. I expect the players at West Ham to be the best there are. I am looking forward to enhance my soccer skills at West Ham and learn what I can from them to take my soccer skills to the next level. I have been informed that the 93’s will be staying at the hotel near [West Ham’s Upton Park] the pitch. I have checked the facilities on the Web and I wish I could experience how the Hammers live in the academy. I expect the coaches at West Ham to be intense and I expect the training to be much harder than what I [am] used to on my club team. I have never been to the United Kingdom and I look forward to seeing some of the sights. I know the food will be different than ours in the United States where we have such diverse cultures.
